A Guide to the Best Theme Parks in Orlando

Are you a theme park enthusiast? Orlando, a city in Florida is your dream destination. Here, you will be spoiled with choices with exciting rides, delectable food options, great shows, and magical experiences. At some of the top Florida theme parks, you will garner unforgettable memories.

In this quick guide, explore the best theme parks in Orlando. Learn about how to make the most of your visit with unmissable rides, the best food choices, and hidden gems. Let's begin.

Orlando Theme Parks: Fun, Food, and More!

Fondly called the Theme Park Capital Of The World, Orlando keeps you on your toes. And you will realize it once there. Families, couples, groups of friends, and every visitor is treated to times to cherish at these fun-filled zones.

Here are some of the most-loved theme parks in the city. Add these to your itinerary if you are visiting the O-Town anytime soon.

Walt Disney World: Magic at Every Turn

Walt Disney World Resort - the crown of Orlando’s theme parks doesn’t need an introduction. It offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Rides

• Magic Kingdom: Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• EPCOT: Soarin' Around the World and Test Track for immersive experiences and high-speed fun
• Hollywood Studios: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Toy Story Mania
• Animal Kingdom: Avatar Flight of Passage (one of the world’s best 3D attractions), offers a breathtaking flying experience over Pandora

Best Food Options

• Magic Kingdom: Savor delicious French-inspired cuisine at Be Our Guest in Beast’s Castle.
• EPCOT: A food lover’s paradise, it serves global cuisine at the World Showcase, where each country has a food kiosk.
• Hollywood Studios: Dig into an upscale meal at The Hollywood Brown Derby.
• Animal Kingdom: At Tiffins Restaurant, choose from a unique menu that is influenced by Africa, Asia, and South America

Hidden Gems

• Magic Kingdom: The Swiss Family Treehouse is a peaceful, scenic spot that’s perfect for a break.
• EPCOT: The Seas with Nemo & Friends has an aquarium that showcases sea life. Don’t miss the boat ride here.
• Hollywood Studios: The Frozen Sing-Along Celebration is a delightful and underrated show that brings joy to both kids and adults.
• Animal Kingdom: The Maharajah Jungle Trek is a serene walk. Watch tigers, birds, and other exotic animals here in a beautifully themed setting.

Tips

• Download the My Disney Experience app to avoid long waits. It lets you reserve rides with Genie+ and see real-time wait times.
• Visit during off-peak times (mid-week, during the off-season) to make your experience more enjoyable.

Universal Studios Orlando: For the Thrill-Seekers

Are you into high-energy rides and immersive-themed areas? The Universal Studios Orlando is your choice of place. It has two major parks: Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Both are jam-packed with incredible rides based on your favorite movies.

Rides

• Universal Studios Florida: Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts is a must-ride in Diagon Alley. Revenge of the Mummy is a thrilling indoor rollercoaster.
• Islands of Adventure: The Incredible Hulk Coaster and Jurassic Park River Adventure are exhilarating, high-speed rides.
• Universal’s Volcano Bay: A water park with fun, innovative slides and relaxing lazy rivers.

Best Food Options

• Universal Studios Florida: Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley serves up British pub fare, including Fish and Chips and Shepherd’s Pie.
• Islands of Adventure: Mythos is a beautifully themed restaurant offering Mediterranean and American cuisine.
• Volcano Bay: Grab a tropical treat from Kohola Reef Bar & Grill, and savor the refreshing flavors of the island life.

Hidden Gems

• Universal Studios Florida: The Mummy’s Tomb around the ride queue for Revenge of the Mummy offers cool photo opportunities.
• Islands of Adventure:The Skull Island: Reign of Kong queue has intricate details.
• Volcano Bay: The quiet, less crowded parts of the park like the Waturi Beach area offer a more relaxing experience.

Tip

Skip regular lines with Express Passes. If you’re visiting during peak times, make sure to invest in it.

SeaWorld Orlando: Aquatic Adventures and Thrills

SeaWorld Orlando combines the best of thrilling rides and marine life exhibits. While known for its animal exhibits, the park also has some world-class coasters and water attractions.

Rides

• Mako: Orlando’s tallest and fastest, this high-speed coaster gives you ample airtime and a heart-pounding experience.
• Infinity Falls: Cool off with this white-water rafting ride while experiencing intense drops.
• Kraken: A floorless coaster with intense twists, turns, and speed.

Best Food Options

• Voyager’s Smokehouse is a great spot for barbecue.
• Sharks Underwater Grill is a unique dining experience where you eat next to a shark tank.

Hidden Gems

• The Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin exhibit is one of the park’s quieter areas. You’ll see penguins in a cold, ice-filled environment.

Tip

Download the SeaWorld app to plan your day, track wait times for rides, and avoid long lines.

LEGOLAND Florida: Fun for Families and Younger Kids

If you’re traveling with younger children or simply love LEGOs, LEGOLAND Florida is a must-visit. This park offers a ton of fun with its interactive rides and impressive LEGO sculptures.

Rides

• LEGO Kingdoms: The Dragon Coaster is a great starter rollercoaster for younger kids with some mild thrills.
• LEGO Ninjago World: A fun interactive experience where you can use motion sensors to "fight" villains in a 3D environment.

Best Food Options

• The Brick Beatz Café serves kid-friendly meals in a fun, musical atmosphere.

Hidden Gems

• Miniland USA is an incredible display of famous landmarks made entirely from LEGOs. The level of detail is jaw-dropping and worth checking out.

Tip

If you have little ones, LEGO Kingdoms and Imagination Zone will keep them entertained for hours.

Maximize Your Orlando Theme Park Experience

Orlando’s theme parks are all unique, each offering something special for visitors. Whether you’re looking for thrill rides, family-friendly fun, or immersive experiences, there’s something for everyone. So, if you are planning a family vacation in Orlando, consider these theme parks for an experience to treasure.